Window covering sizing method and apparatus

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a lateral support surface and a saw for cutting the window covering positioned at an end of the lateral support surface. An engagement member locates the center of the window covering that is retractably mounted on the lateral support surface. A clamp assembly comprises a clamping jaw that is movable to a first position where the clamping jaw presses the window covering against the lateral support surface. The clamp assembly is movable relative to the first saw and the second saw. A controller for moves the clamp assembly to automatically position a first end of the window covering relative to the first saw and a second end of the window covering relative to the second saw. Methods of cutting a window covering are also provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.12/164,839, filed on Jun. 30, 2008 now Pat. No. 7,987,754, which claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) from provisional patent application No.60/962,646, filed Jul. 31, 2007, and provisional patent application No.61/010,291, filed Jan. 7, 2008, by the inventors hereof, the entiredisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

It will be appreciated that window coverings come in a variety ofmaterials including wood, plastic, fabric, vinyl and aluminum and avariety of styles including horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, wovenshades, pleated shades, Roman shades and cellular blinds. Windowcoverings are sold as stock, custom and cut-to-size or size-in-store.Stock window coverings are manufactured in a variety of standard widthsthat are intended to fit corresponding standard window sizes. Customwindow coverings are manufactured to specified dimensions per acustomer's specific request. Cut-to-size or size-in-store windowcoverings are manufactured in a limited number of sizes that areintended to be used with a wide range of window sizes. A cutting machineis provided at the retail outlet that cuts the window covering from themanufactured or stock size to the customer's desired size. The cuttingmachine is operated by the retail outlet personnel. Operator error ispossible because the process requires accuracy in both the measurementand alignment of the blind in the machine. Further, even if the blindsare cut correctly the process consumes valuable personnel time.

SUMMARY

An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a lateral supportsurface and a first saw for cutting the window covering positioned at afirst end of the lateral support surface and a second saw for cuttingthe window covering positioned at a second end of the lateral supportsurface. An engagement member locates the center of the window coveringthat is retractably mounted on the lateral support surface. A clampassembly comprises a clamping jaw that is movable to a first positionwhere the clamping jaw presses the window covering against the lateralsupport surface. The clamp assembly is movable relative to the first sawand the second saw. A controller for moves the clamp assembly toautomatically position a first end of the window covering relative tothe first saw and a second end of the window covering relative to thesecond saw.

The engagement member may be movable between an extend position where itprojects beyond the lateral surface and a retracted position where it isdisposed behind the lateral surface. The lateral support surface may bemounted on a drawer movable between a first open position and a secondclosed position. The engagement member may comprise a pin that engages amating hole on the window covering. A platform may support the windowcovering where the platform is located in the drawer. The clamp assemblymay be mounted for movement with the drawer. The lateral support surfacemay comprise a plurality of rollers. The first and second saws mayreciprocate to cut the window covering. A first clamp and second clampmay be located adjacent the first saw and the second saw for holding thewindow covering when the saws cut the window covering. The clampassembly may be mounted on a carriage that is reciprocated to move thewindow covering. A user interface may be used to input data to thecontroller. The window covering may comprise a package such that thepackage is cut by the first saw and the second saw. The window coveringmay comprise a box where the window covering extends from the box. Theengagement member may engage a hole formed on the box. Productidentification information in the form of a bar code may be associatedwith the window covering.

A method of cutting a window covering comprises providing a surface in adrawer that is movable between an open position and a closed position;moving the drawer to the open position; locating a window covering in aknown position relative to the surface when the drawer is in the openposition; moving the drawer to the closed position; clamping the windowcovering in the known position against the surface; receiving a desiredsize of the window covering; determining a distance the known positionof the window covering must be positioned from a saw to obtain thedesired size of the window covering; automatically moving the windowcovering such that the known position of the window covering ispositioned the distance from the saw; and engaging the window coveringwith the saw.

The method may include receiving a type of window covering. The methodmay include receiving mount information of the window covering. Themethod may include deducting a predetermined length from the desiredsize based on the mount information. The step of determining may includedividing the desired size by two to obtain a half length. The method maycomprise reading a bar code provided on the window covering. The methodmay comprise providing a range of sizes that are valid for the type ofwindow covering and comparing the desired size to the range of validsizes. The step of locating may comprise locating the window coveringrelative to an engagement member that extends from the surface. Prior tothe step of automatically moving the clamp assembly, the engagementmember may be retracted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the SIS machine of theinvention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective back view of the embodiment of the SIS machineof FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views of a saw used in the SIS machine ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing details of the SIS machine of FIG.1.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective back views of the embodiment of the SISmachine of FIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 8 is a back view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG. 1with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 10 is a left side view of the embodiment of the SIS machine of FIG.1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 11 is a right side view of the embodiment of the SIS machine ofFIG. 1 with the outer casing removed.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a saw of the embodiment of the SISmachine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a perspective front view of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 withthe casing removed.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 1 with the cuttingchamber removed.

FIGS. 15-17 are perspective views of an embodiment of the clamp assemblyused in the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an alternate embodiment of theclamp assembly used in the SIS machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the operating system of the SIS machine.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the operating systemof the SIS machine.

FIGS. 21A-21G are views showing the positioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 22A-22D are views showing an alternate embodiment of thepositioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 23A and 23B are views showing another embodiment of thepositioning and cutting operations.

FIGS. 24A-24D are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of theoperation of the SIS machine.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the operationof the SIS machine.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the positioningand cutting operation.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of theverification process.

FIGS. 28A and 28B are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of theoperation of an ordering system.

FIGS. 29A and 29B are block diagrams illustrating an embodiment of theoperation of an ordering system.

FIG. 30 shows part of the ordering system of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram illustrating the system for measuring thedimensions of an architectural feature.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram illustrating another embodiment of theoperation of an ordering system.

FIG. 33 is a block diagram illustrating yet another embodiment of theoperation of an ordering system.

FIGS. 34 through 42 are sample screen shots that may be displayed on theuser interface during the cutting operation.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the SISmachine.

FIGS. 44, 45A and 45B show one operation of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIGS. 46 and 47 show another operation of the SIS machine of theinvention.

FIGS. 48A through 48I show yet another operation of the SIS machine ofthe invention.

FIG. 49 is a block diagram illustrating an operation of the SIS machineof the invention.

FIG. 50 is a block diagram illustrating another operation of the SISmachine of the invention.

FIG. 51 is a block diagram illustrating yet another operation of the SISmachine of the invention.

FIG. 52 is a front view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIG. 53 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dust control system.

FIG. 55 is a top view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43 with the drawer inan open position.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the SIS machine of FIG. 43 showing thedrawer structure.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the drawer of the SIS machine of FIG.43.

FIG. 58 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a packagepacked with a window covering usable in the SIS machine.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7, the size-in-store (SIS) machine 1comprises an internal frame 2 that supports the cutting, measuring andoperating systems of the SIS machine. An outer housing 4 is provided tocover the internal mechanisms of the SIS machine. An opening 5 isprovided to allow access to the interior cutting chamber 8 of theapparatus to allow a user to place window coverings into and removewindow coverings from the SIS machine. Opening 5 is covered by a door 6that isolates the cutting chamber 8 from the exterior of the machine.The door 6 may comprise a transparent window 10 to allow a user toobserve the cutting and measuring operations. The door 6 is movablysupported at either end by tracks 12 positioned at either end of theopening 5. In one embodiment a drive 15 such as a rack and pinion isused to automatically slide the door 6 in tracks 12 between open andclosed positions. Other mechanisms such as pneumatic or hydrauliccylinders, a rotary motor or the like may be used to open and close thedoor 6. Further, the door 6 may be hinged rather than sliding. The doormay also be opened and closed manually. Sensors 16 such as limitswitches, optical sensors, pressure sensitive switches or the like maybe provided to detect if the door 6 is closed and to transmit a signalto the operating system indicating the door's status. The operatingsystem may prevent operation of the SIS machine if the door 6 is notclosed.

A platform 20 that supports the window covering during the measuring andcutting operations is provided in cutting chamber 8 adjacent to opening5 such that a user can place a window covering on the platform 20 whenthe door 6 is open. The platform 20 comprises a substantially horizontalsurface that is dimensioned to be able to receive and support a range ofblind sizes.

In one embodiment, a separate access opening 22 is provided on one sidewall 24 of housing 4 such that a blind may be loaded through accessopening 22 into cutting chamber 8 from the end of the machine ratherthan through door 6. Opening 22 is useful for window coverings that arelonger than the length of the SIS machine. For example, opening 22 maybe used to load the vanes of a vertical blind into the machine becausesuch vanes may be manufactured in relatively long lengths that cannot beaccommodated through opening 5. One end of the vanes can be insertedthrough the access opening 22 with the other end of the vanes extendingfrom the housing 4 through opening 22. Alternatively a feed tube orother conveyor may be provided that communicates with opening 22 andallows the window covering to be inserted into the machine remotely. Theends of the vanes located in the cutting chamber 8 can then be cut tolength as will hereinafter be described.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 5, 8 and 15-17, located along the front edge ofthe cutting chamber 8 adjacent to the front edge of platform 20 is alateral support surface 28 that in the illustrated embodiment is definedby a plurality of rollers 26. The lateral support surface 28 facilitatesthe movement of the window covering across the platform 20 during themeasuring and cutting operations. During the measuring and cuttingoperations, the window covering is pressed against the lateral supportsurface 28 and slid across the platform 20 as will hereinafter bedescribed. The use of the rollers 26 facilitates the sliding movement ofthe window covering on platform 20. The rollers 26 may be eliminated andreplaced by a stationary vertical wall where the window covering ispressed against and slides along the stationary wall. The wall maycomprise a low friction surface. Further, another low friction devicemay be used in place of the rollers or wall if desired. For example, amovable belt, a plurality of bearings or other low friction surface ordevice may comprise the lateral support surface 28.

An alternate embodiment of the SIS machine is shown in FIGS. 43, 52, 53and 55 through 57 where like reference numerals are used to identifylike components described with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 1.The SIS machine comprises an internal frame that supports the cutting,measuring and operating systems of the SIS machine. An outer housing 4is provided to cover the internal mechanisms of the SIS machine. Anopening 4405 is provided in the front of the housing 4 to allow accessto the interior cutting chamber 8 of the apparatus. Cutting chamber 8may be covered by a transparent window 4309 to allow a user to observethe cutting and measuring operations.

A drawer 4302 is movably mounted in the opening 4305 such that it can bemoved horizontally between an open position (FIGS. 55 and 56) and aclosed position (FIGS. 43, 52 and 53). The drawer 4302 comprises aplatform 20 for supporting the window covering during the positioningand cutting operation and a front wall 4306 that closes the opening 4305when the drawer 4302 is in the closed position to isolate the cuttingchamber 8 from the external environment. The front wall 4306 alsosupports the lateral support surface 4328. The lateral support surface4328 may comprise the plurality of rollers 4326 or other low frictiondevices for facilitating the movement of the window covering across theplatform 20 during the measuring and cutting operations. When the draweris in the open position the user may place a window covering on platform20 and close the drawer to move the platform 20 and window covering intocutting chamber 8. When the drawer 4302 is closed, the cutting chamber 8in the embodiment of FIG. 43 is configured substantially the same as thecutting chamber 8 in the embodiment of FIG. 1.

One side wall of the housing 4 includes a cut-out area or opening 4322at one end of the opening 4305 adjacent the platform 20 to accommodatewindow coverings which are longer than the machine. Referring to FIGS.46 47 and 56, for example, vertical window coverings may be manufacturedin lengths that are longer than the length of opening 4305 or machine 1.The cut-out area or opening 4322 is open towards the front of the SISmachine and is positioned such that a window covering supported onplatform 20 may extend out of opening 4322. To accommodate a long windowcovering the window covering is placed on the platform 20 by insertingthe window covering through opening 4323 (FIG. 57) such that it extendsoff of the end of the platform 20 to the side having opening 4322. Whenthe drawer 4302 is closed the long window covering resting on platform20 extends out of the machine through the opening 4322 and is positionedbetween the opening 4322 and the front wall 4306 of drawer 4302. Opening4322 may be covered by a movable door 4323 that is opened to allowaccess to opening 4322.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 8 10-12 and 14, located at either end ofplatform 20 are cutting devices such as saws 30 and 32 for cutting thewindow covering to the desired size. The saws 30 and 32 aresubstantially identical such that specific reference will be made to saw30. Saw 30 comprises a saw motor 34 for rotating the arbor 38 on whichthe saw blade 36 is mounted. The motor 34 is connected to the saw arbor38 via a transmission. The motor 34, transmission and arbor 38 aremounted on a platform 40 that is in turn supported on rails 42. Therails 42 support platform 40 such that platform 40 can reciprocatetransversely to the platform 20 to bring the saw blade 36 into contactwith a window covering supported on and extending over the end ofplatform 20. Platform 40 moves saw blade 36 through the window coveringto cut the window covering. The saws may be replaced by other cuttingdevices. For example, die cutters or lasers may be used to make the cut.Moreover, a combination of cutting devices may be used depending on thewindow covering material, material thickness or the like.

To move platform 40, a drive 43 is provided. Drive 43 may comprise amotor 44 that is supported on the platform 40 and that rotates a pinion46 that engages a rack 48 mounted on frame 2. When the motor 44 isactuated, the pinion 46 is rotated and through its engagement with therack 48 reciprocates platform 40 on rails 42 toward and away from thewindow covering.

In one embodiment, two saw blades 36 and 36 a are provided with each ofsaws 30 and 32 to minimize routine maintenance of the machine. A sawblade has a limited life span such that after a predetermined amount ofuse the blade must be replaced. If only one saw blade is provided oneach saw, more maintenance of the SIS machine is required. To minimizethe routine maintenance of the SIS machine, two blades may be providedon each saw where the blades may be changed automatically.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 8, 12 and 14, in such a two blade arrangement,each saw comprises a motor 34 for driving arbors 38 and 38 a thatsupport blades 36 and 36 a, respectively. The arbors 38 and 38 a aremounted on a housing 50 such that blades 36 and 36 a are supported in anoverlapping relationship. Housing 50 can pivot on an axle 51 relative tothe platform 40 about an axis parallel to the arbors 38 and 38 a. Thehousing 50 is shown in a first orientation where blade 36 is positionedto cut a window covering and blade 36 a is positioned as a replacementblade. The housing 50 is maintained in the illustrated position by alocking mechanism 56 that locks the housing 50 relative to the platform40. In one embodiment the locking mechanism 56 comprises a retractablepost where the post is extended from the platform 40 to engage a matingreceptacle on the housing 50 to lock the housing 50 relative to theplatform 40. To unlock the housing 50, the post 56 is retracted from thereceptacle allowing the housing 50 to rotate on axle 51. A pair of stops62 and 64 comprising bumpers 52 and 54 and sensors 58 and 60 ensure thatthe housing 50 assumes the correct orientation as will hereinafter bedescribed. Sensors 58 and 60 may comprise limit switches, opticalsensors, pressure sensitive switches or any other sensor capable ofsensing the orientation of housing 50 and generating a signal indicativeof the orientation. The stops 62 and 64 are movably mounted such thateach stop can be extended from or retracted into the platform 40.

To explain the operation of the saw assembly, assume that the blades 36and 36 a and housing 50 are initially oriented as shown in FIGS. 3 and12. Blade 36 cuts the window coverings as will hereinafter be described.Each cut is counted and the total number of cuts is stored in the memoryof the operating system. When the total number of cuts equals apredetermined maximum number of cuts, blade 36 is replaced. Thepredetermined maximum number of cuts will depend on the bladeconstruction and the material being cut, however, the predeterminedmaximum number of cuts is preferably selected such that the blade isreplaced before wear on the blade degrades its cutting performance. Whenthe total number of actual cuts equals the predetermined number of cuts,the locking mechanism 56 is withdrawn from the housing 50 therebyallowing the housing to freely rotate relative to platform 40.Simultaneously with the unlocking of the housing 50, the first stop 62is retracted into housing 50 and the second stop 64 is extended fromhousing 50. The saw blades 36 and 36 a, spinning on arbors 38 and 38 a,create enough inertia that the housing 50 rotates on the support axle 51when the locking mechanism 56 is retracted without the use of any otherdrive mechanism. The housing 50 rotates until a flange 66 on the housingcontacts stop 64. In this position, the saw blade housing 50 has rotated180 degrees and is oriented such that the second blade 36 a ispositioned to cut the window covering and the first saw blade 36 is inthe reserve position. Sensor 60, associated with stop 64, produces asignal indicating that housing 50 has rotated to the new position. Thesignal from sensor 60 is transmitted to the CPU and the lockingmechanism 56 is actuated to lock housing 50 in the new position. Thetotal number of cuts are counted and maintained in memory for the newblade 36 a. Both blades 36 and 36 a may be replaced during a singleservice visit when the second blade reaches a predetermined maximumnumber of cuts.

Because the saw blades are positioned in an overlapping relationship,the operating system that controls the measuring and cutting operationsmust be informed as to which blade is in the cutting position. Thesensors 58 and 60 associated with the stops 62 and 64 provide thisinformation to the operating system by transmitting a signal to the CPUwhen the housing 50 contacts the stop. The operating system then adjuststhe measuring and cutting operations to account for the difference insaw blade positions.

In an alternate embodiment, the saw blades 36 and 36 a are positionedsuch that the blades are in the same cutting plane. In such anarrangement the operating system does not adjust the cutting operationbased on which blade is being used. However, such an arrangementrequires additional space because the coplanar blades require more roomthan the overlapping blades shown in the drawings. In either arrangementthe sensors 58 and 60 associated with the stops 62 and 64 may be used toprovide feed back to the CPU that the blades are properly positioned.

Referring to FIGS. 5, 12, 15-17 and 57, a clamp assembly 80 is providedthat comprises a clamping jaw 82 that can be extended and retracted totrap a window covering against the lateral supporting surface 28, 4328.Jaw 82 is supported for reciprocating linear movement on a bar orbearing 83 that rides on rails or bearings 86 where jaw 82 is moved overthe rails 86 by a drive 87 such as a pneumatic cylinder, electric motor,solenoid, hydraulic cylinder or the like. The drive 87 may also comprisea rack and pinion or ball screw drive or the like. The jaw 82 may beextended to clamp a window covering against the lateral supportingsurface 28, 4328 and retracted to release the window covering. FIG. 57shows the clamp assembly 80 for the embodiment of the SIS machine shownin FIG. 43. The clamp assembly in this embodiment is substantially thesame as in the embodiment of FIGS. 5, 12 and 15-18 except that the clampassembly 80 is mounted on the drawer 4302 such that the clamp assemblymoves with the drawer.

The clamp assembly 80 is mounted on a carriage 88 that is mounted on alinear drive such as a ball screw drive or rack and pinion. Rotation ofpinion (not shown) engages rack 93 to reciprocate the carriage 88 alongthe length of platform 20. In one embodiment the pinion or other drivemechanism is rotated by a stepper motor or servomotor 91 such that theposition of the carriage 88 and clamp assembly 80 along the platform 20can be controlled with great accuracy. Each rotation of the steppermotor or servomotor 91 translates into a predetermined length of lineartravel of the clamp assembly 80 along the platform 20. The rotation ofthe stepper motor or servomotor 91 can be precisely controlled toprecisely control the linear motion of the clamp assembly 80 and itsposition along platform 20. In one embodiment, the carriage 88 supportssensor 92 such as an optical sensor. In one embodiment sensor 92 is usedto measure and position the window covering relative to the saws 36 and36 a as will hereinafter be described.

An alternate embodiment of the clamp assembly is shown in FIG. 18 at 280that is similar to clamping jaw 80 as previously described. Clampassembly 280 is provided that comprises a clamping jaw 282 that can beextended and retracted to trap a window covering against the lateralsupporting surface 28. Jaw 282 is supported for reciprocating linearmovement as previously described. The jaw 282 may be extended to clamp awindow covering against the lateral supporting surface 28 and retractedto release the window covering as previously described. The clampassembly 280 is mounted on a carriage 88 that is mounted on a lineardrive as previously described to reciprocate the carriage 88 along thelength of platform 20.

In order to position the window covering relative to the clamping jaw282, clamping jaw 282 is provided with a physical engagement member suchas pin 285. The position of the pin 285 relative to the clamping jaw 282is known. For example pin 285 may be located in the center of clampingjaw 282. The window covering and package are provided with a hole 201located on the window covering 200 (FIGS. 23A and 23B). The windowcovering 200 is inserted into the SIS machine and placed on platform 20such that the pin 285 is inserted into the hole 201 in the windowcovering. As a result, the position of the window covering 200 relativeto the clamping jaw 282 is known. In one embodiment the hole in thewindow covering is located at the center of the window covering suchthat the pin locates the center of the window covering such that thecenter of the window covering is known to the SIS machine. Where the pin285 is located on the center of the clamping jaw 282, the clamping jaw282 is also aligned with the center of the window covering.

In an alternate embodiment, a locating pin is located on the machinehousing rather than on the clamping jaw 282. Referring to FIGS. 44, 45,55 and 56 the first engagement element comprises a pin 4402 mounted onthe lateral support surface 4328 of the drawer 4302. The pin 4402projects from the lateral support surface 4328 at the center of theplatform. The pin 4402 is movable between an extended position where itextends beyond the lateral support surface 4328 (e.g. beyond rollers4326) and can engage a window covering and a retracted position where itis positioned behind the lateral support surface 4328 (e.g. behindrollers 4326). The pin 4402 may be moved by a solenoid or other similardrive 4404. The drive 4404 is controlled by the PC to selectively andautomatically extend and retract the pin 4402. The pin 4402 engages amating engagement element in the form of alignment hole 201 formed onthe package and/or window covering 200 that closely receives pin 4402.The alignment hole 201 is located at the center of the package andwindow covering and locates the window covering in a known position onthe platform 20.

To initiate the cutting operation, the drive 4404 is activated to extendpin 4402 beyond lateral support surface 4328 (Block 4901). The useropens drawer 4302 (Block 4902) and places the window covering on theplatform 20 such that the center pin 4402 extends into the centrallylocated hole 201 on the package/window covering (Block 4903). The drawer4302 is closed by the user (Block 4904). When the cutting operation isinitiated, the clamp assembly 80 and clamping jaw 82 are positioned atthe center position of the platform 20 and the window covering iscentered relative to the clamping jaw 82 by the pin 4402. The clampingjaw 82 is extended to force the window covering against the lateralsupport surface 4328 (Block 4905). The pin 4402 is then retracted fromthe window covering by drive 4404 (Block 4906).

The various sensors described herein transmit signals to the CPU of thesystem operating system to control operation of the SIS machine.Further, the various drives described herein are controlled by the CPUto position and cut the window covering. The CPU may be located in themachine 1 or it may be located remotely from the machine.

Referring to FIG. 19, one embodiment of the operating system of the SISmachine 1 includes a computing platform 100. The platform is controlledby a processor 102 which serves as the central processing unit (CPU) forthe platform. Memory 104 is typically divided into multiple types ofmemory or memory areas such as read-only memory (ROM), and random accessmemory (RAM). A plurality of general-purpose adapters, 106 are present.At least one, in this example, serves to connect the computing platformto a network 108. The network might be a corporate intranet, a localarea network (LAN), the public switched telephone network, a wirelessnetwork, the internet or a combination of such networks. Computerprogram code instructions for implementing the appropriate applicationsand controlling the SIS machine are stored on the fixed medium 110. Whenthe system is operating, the instructions are partially loaded intomemory 104 and executed by the CPU 102. Numerous types of generalpurpose computer systems and workstations are available and can be usedto implement computing platform 100. Available systems include thosethat run operating systems such as Windows™ by Microsoft, variousversions of UNIX™, various versions of Linux™, and various versions ofApple's Mac™ OS. A user interface 112 such as a touch screen and/oraudio speakers is provided to receive input from the user and to displayoutput to the user. Other user interface devices may be used such asvoice recognition, wireless communication technology, joy sticks, videodisplays, monitors, keyboards, thumbwheels or the like. User interface112 is intended to include any apparatus that allows the user to inputdata to the system and/or that allows the system to display informationto the user.

The entire function of the invention, including the common database canbe implemented in whole or in part on a single computing platform likethat shown in FIG. 19. In other embodiments, however, a common databasemay be stored on a database server such as an SQL server. Processor 120,adapters 122, and memory 124 function similarly to those of computingplatform 100. If a corporate intranet is used for connectivity, theapplications or modules on computing platform 100 can be accessed from aclient workstation via a web page.

A computer program which implements parts of the invention through theuse of a system like that illustrated in FIG. 19 can take the form of acomputer program residing on a computer usable or computer readabletangible storage medium such as a diskette. A computer program productcontaining the program of instructions can be supplied in such a form,and loaded on the machines involved, either directly, or over a network.The medium may also be a stream of information being retrieved when thecomputer program product is “downloaded” through the Internet. Thecomputer programs can reside on any medium that can contain, store,communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or inconnection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example butnot limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagationmedium. Other examples of a tangible computer-readable medium wouldinclude a portable computer diskette or portable fixed disk, an opticalfiber, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), and a digital versatiledisc read-only memory (DVD-ROM).

In the embodiment of FIG. 20 a processor 202 in the form of a PC and aseparate PLC controller 203 associated with the drive 91 of clampassembly 89 are used to control operation of the SIS machine to positionand cut the window covering. The system of FIG. 20 is otherwise the sameas the system of FIG. 19.

Operation of the SIS machine will now be described. When the machine isfirst powered up, the center position CP of the clamp assembly 80relative to the cutting devices such as saws 30 and 32 may bedetermined. The center position CP is the point mid-way between theactive blades of the two saws 30 and 32 and is shown, for example, inFIG. 21. To determine the center position, the clamp assembly 80 ismoved along the platform 20 in a first direction until the clamp reachesthe end of travel. The end of travel may be identified by a sensor 105such as limit switch, optical sensor or the like. The sensor 92 mountedon the clamp assembly 80 may also be used for this function. A signalfrom the appropriate sensor is provided to the CPU 102 indicating thatthe clamp has reached the end of travel. The CPU then sends a signal todrive 89 such that the stepper motor or servomotor 91 rotates apredetermined number of rotations until the clamp assembly 80 is locatedin the center position CP of the platform 20. The machine is then readyto cut a window covering.

Locating the center position could also be performed other than at startup of the machine and may be performed by other processes. For example aseparate centering switch may be provided that is located at the centerposition and that is “contacted” by the clamp assembly 80 eitherphysically, magnetically, optically or electronically to identify thecenter position. Further, while in one embodiment the clamp assembly 80operates from the center position CP of the platform 20, it is to beunderstood that the clamp assembly 80 could initiate the cuttingoperation from any start position provided that the start position is aknown position relative to the blades of saws 30 and 32.

To cut a window covering, the user places a window covering 200 in thecutting chamber 8 on platform 20 (Block 701, FIG. 24A). The user may bedirected where to place the window covering by visual, audio or othercommands from processor 102 via user interface 112. The platform 20 mayalso have a visual indicator directing the user as to the properplacement of the window covering on the platform. For example, theplatform 20 may include indicia such as printing indicating the properplacement of the window covering. In one embodiment, proper placement ofthe window covering on platform 20 results in the window covering beingdetected by sensor 92 (FIG. 21A). Once the window covering is properlypositioned on the platform 20 a signal from sensor 92 may be transmittedto and received by the CPU indicating the presence of a window covering(Block 702). In response to this signal the CPU 102 actuates drive 15 toautomatically close and lock door 6 or drawer 4302. The door 6 anddrawer 4302 may be closed manually. The door 6 and drawer 4302 isolatethe cutting chamber 8 from the external environment and user (Block703). Sensor 16 transmits a signal to the CPU indicating that the door 6is in the closed position (Block 704).

The window covering 200 may be cut in the package or it may be removedfrom the package before being inserted into the machine. One example ofa suitable package is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/908,728 filed May 24, 2005 and is incorporated in its entiretyherein. The operating system can be programmed to cut only windowcoverings in the package or only window coverings out of the package.Alternatively, the machine can be programmed to cut the product ineither form, provided that the form of the product is input to the CPUprior to the cutting operation. “Window covering” as used herein forexplaining the operation of the SIS machine includes both the windowcovering in the package and the window covering without the package andis represented by element 200 in the Figures.

The package or the window covering may be provided with a mark 101 atits longitudinal center where mark 101 can be sensed by sensor 92. Themark 101 may include reflective tape, reflective ink or other opticallyidentifiable surface if sensor 92 is an optical sensor, a physicalcharacteristic such as an indentation if the sensor is a mechanicalsensor, a magnetic stripe if the sensor is a magnetic sensor or othercombination of mark and sensor provided that sensor 92 can determine thecenter of the blind by reference to the mark.

Where the physical pin 285 of the embodiment of FIG. 18 or theretractable pin 4402 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 43 are used, mark101 may be eliminated and the physical engagement of the windowcovering/package with pin 285 is used to locate the center of the windowcovering. Referring to FIGS. 23A and 23B, window covering/package 200 isplaced on platform 20 and the pin 285 is manually inserted into thecentering hole 201 formed in the center of the window covering 200 whenthe user loads the window blind into the SIS machine, FIG. 25. Referringto FIGS. 44 and 45 the window covering/package 200 is placed on platform20 in drawer 4302 and the pin 4402 is manually inserted into thecentering hole 201 formed in the center of the window covering 200 whenthe user loads the window blind into the SIS machine, FIG. 49. Theengagement of the pin 285, 4402 with the centering hole 201 on thewindow covering locates the center of the window covering relative tothe SIS machine. In such embodiments the use of sensors to determine thecenter of the window covering can be eliminated. Further, if theretractable pin on the lateral surface is used, the pin is retractedafter the clamping jaw 82 clamps the window covering against lateralsupport surface 4328. If the window covering is cut while in thepackage, the package is formed with a hole that is coextensive with thecentering hole on the window covering such that the pin can pass throughthe hole in the package and engage the window covering. Alternatively, ahole on the package can be used if the window covering is aligned withinthe package. The centering hole on the window covering may be madedirectly in the window covering, such as in the head rail, or acentering bracket with a hole formed therein may be attached to thewindow covering. For example the centering bracket with the centeringhole may be fixed to the center of the head rail. Further, while acylindrical pin engaging a mating round centering hole is shown, thephysical engaging members may include any physical structures capable ofengaging one another to locate the window covering relative to theclamp. For example, the male member may extend from the window coveringor package and engage a female receptacle on the clamping jaw. Thesemembers may have any shape and a plurality of mating pairs of engagingmembers may be used.

A transaction record 230 is created by CPU 102 and stored in memory 104(Block 705). The transaction record 230 may be populated with applicableinformation related to the transaction such as time, date and locationof the SIS machine, customer information such as name, address, paymentinformation, bar code number, product cut width, time spent duringcutting, number of times the user navigates to each screen page and anyerrors reported by the PLC or the like (Block 706). Other informationmay also be stored in the transaction record.

User input data is also transmitted to and received by CPU 102identifying, at least, the finished or cut size of the window covering(Block 707). The process for entering this information will be discussedin detail hereinafter. The user may be required to input otherinformation regarding the window covering such as the type of blind,color, style, stock size or the like. The user may also be requested toinput other information such as name, address, payment information orthe like. Any or all of this information may be stored in transactionrecord 230.

To cut the window covering, if the physical engagement members of FIG.18 or 43 are not used, the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform20 by drive 89 from the known center position CP until the sensor 92locates the center mark 101 of the window covering/package 200 (block708). The clamp assembly is stopped in a position where the center ofthe clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the center CW of the windowcovering/package (Block 709), FIG. 21B. The position of clamp assembly80 when positioned at the center CW of the window covering/package 200is known. The CPU determines the distance D between the center CW of thewindow covering/package 200 and the center position CP to establish thelocation of the window covering/package 200 relative to the machine.These steps may be eliminated where the pin 285 and hole 201 of FIG. 18,or the retractable pin 4402 and hole 201 of FIG. 44, or other physicalengaging members, are used. In such an arrangement the window coveringis centered when it is manually inserted into the SIS machine by thephysical engagement of the pin with the centering hole formed on thewindow covering.

Once the clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the center CW of the windowcovering/package 200 the drive 87 extends jaw 82 to force the windowcovering/package 200 against the lateral support surface 28 (Block 710,Block 4402, 4905), FIGS. 21C, 45B. In this position the clamp assembly80 is centered on the window covering/package 200; the position CW ofthe clamp assembly 80 relative to the center position CP is known; andthe window covering/package 200 is trapped between the jaw 82 and thelateral support surface 28. In the embodiments of FIGS. 21C and 45B theclamp assembly 80 is also positioned at the center of platform 20.

Referring to FIG. 24C, the CPU then determines how far to move thewindow covering/package to properly position it in front of the saws 30and 32 (Block 711). The user enters into the processor 202 and theprocessor receives whether the window covering is intended to be mountedas an inside mount or an outside mount (Block 4404) and the desired sizeof the window covering (Block 4403). If an inside mount is selected, theprocessor 202 automatically deducts a predetermined length from thedesired size entered by the user to obtain the final dimension of thewindow covering (Block 4405). If an outside mount is selected, the finaldimension of the window covering is the desired size input by the user.The user may also enter the window height. The information entered bythe user is stored in the record for that transaction. The CPU 102accesses the desired cut size of the window covering as entered by theuser. From this dimension the CPU calculates how far the center of thewindow covering must be positioned from the saws 30 and 32 to achievethe desired cut size of blind (Block 4406). The CPU divides the desiredfinished size by two to obtain a resulting distance from the center ofthe window covering to each end hereof. The center of the windowcovering must be positioned this resulting distance from the saw. Theuser also enters whether the window covering is for an inside mount oran outside mount. For an inside mount a small distance is subtractedfrom the desired size to accommodate for the space needed to mountinside of a window frame. For example, if a window covering is to be cutto a width of 35 inches, the CPU determines that the distance from thecenter of the window covering to each of the saws must be 17½ inches.For an inside mount ½ of an inch may be deducted from the desired sizebefore dividing the desired size by 2. The CPU can make thisdetermination without any information regarding the stock size of theblind or the amount of material to be cut from the end of the blind. Forsome applications material may be cut from only one end such as vanesfor vertical blinds.

In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the PLC 203 determines how far to move thewindow covering/package to properly position it in front of the saws.The processor 202 transmits to the PLC 203 the final dimension of thewindow covering as entered by the user and as corrected to account foran inside mount, if necessary (Block 4407). Using this dimension, thePLC 203 determines how far the center of the package must be positionedfrom each saw to obtain the desired size of the window covering aspreviously described (Block 4408). Specifically, the PLC 203 divides thefinal dimension provided by the processor 202 by two to obtain a halflength. The half length is equal to the distance from the center of thepackage/window covering to the end of the window covering andcorresponds to the distance the center of the blind must be positionedfrom each saw. The PLC 203 makes this determination without anyinformation regarding the stock or starting size of the window covering,the amount of material that will eventually be cut from the end of thewindow covering or whether the window covering is intended for an insidemount or an outside mount. The window covering is then cut as describedbelow.

The clamp assembly 80 is then moved toward one end of the machine basedon this determination such that the center of the blind is positionedthe resulting distance from the saw (Block 712, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21D.Clamp assembly 80 moves the window covering/package such that theposition of the clamp assembly relative to the window covering/package200 remains fixed. The clamp assembly 80 is moved such that the windowcovering/package is positioned in front of one of saws 30 or 32 with thecenter of the window covering spaced from the saw the predetermineddistance. FIG. 17 also shows the clamp assembly 80 moved to an end ofplatform 20. Secondary clamps 99 may also be used adjacent each of thesaws to hold the window covering in position during the cuttingoperation (FIG. 5, 15). The secondary clamps 99 are extended to trap thewindow covering against the lateral surface 28. The saw blade is rotatedat high speed and the saw is moved toward the window covering/package bydrive 43 such that the saw engages and cuts the window covering at thedesired location (Block 713, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21E.

The clamp assembly 80 is then moved toward the opposite end of themachine moving the window covering/package 200 with the clamp assembly(Block 714). The position of the clamp assembly 80 relative to thewindow covering/package 200 remains fixed. The clamp assembly 80 ismoved such that the window covering/package is positioned in front ofthe other of saws 30 and 32, FIG. 21F with the center of the windowcovering spaced from the saw the predetermined distance. Secondaryclamps 99 may also be used adjacent each of the saws to hold the windowcovering in position during the cutting operation (FIG. 5, 15). Thesecondary clamps 99 are extended to trap the window covering against thelateral surface 28. The saw blade is rotated at high speed and the sawis moved toward the window covering/package by drive 43 such that thesaw engages and cuts the window covering at the desired location (Block715, FIG. 24C) and FIG. 21F. The jaw 82 holds the windowcovering/package 200 tight against the lateral support surface 28 tosupport the window covering/package while it is cut. Both ends of theblind may be cut simultaneously by moving one or both of the sawsrelative to the window covering rather than moving the window covering.

Because the SIS machine uses controllable motors for the saws and maycut window coverings either in or out of the packaging, the SIS machinemay cut a wide variety of window coverings including wood, plastic,fabric, vinyl and aluminum and a variety of styles including horizontalblinds, vertical blinds, woven shades, pleated shades, Roman shades andcellular blinds. The saws can also cut the shade panel and the head railand bottom rail in one cut. The rotational speed of the saws and thefeed rate of the saws can be controlled on a per cut basis based on thetype of blind loaded in the SIS machine such that the saws may cut awide variety of materials.

The process for cutting a vertical blind will now be described.Referring to FIGS. 46, 47 and 50 an engagement element projects from thelateral support surface 4328. The engagement element comprises aretractable pin 4520 that is offset from the center of the platform(FIGS. 55-57). The pin 4520 engages an engagement element comprising analignment hole 4522 formed on the package 200 for a vertical windowcovering. Alignment hole is offset from the center of the package 200and the center of the window covering and locates the vertical windowcovering in a known position on the platform 20. The pin 4520 is movablebetween an extended position where it extends beyond the lateral supportsurface and can engage a window covering and a retracted position whereit is positioned behind the lateral support surface. The pin 4520 may bemoved by a solenoid or other similar drive 4521. The drive 4521 iscontrolled by the PC to selectively and automatically extend and retractthe pin. The drawer 4302 is opened and the user places the packagecontaining the vanes or head rail 200 on the platform such that the pin4520 extends into the alignment hole 4522 on the package/window coveringpackage. The drawer 4302 is then closed. Because vertical windowcoverings may be longer than the SIS machine, opening 4322 (FIGS. 43 and56) is provided at one end of the SIS machine that allows the packagecontaining the vanes or head rail 200 to extend out of that end of thecutting machine, if necessary, as shown in FIGS. 46 and 47. The clampassembly 80 is positioned on the platform 20 centered on the location ofthe alignment hole 4522 and the pin 4520. The clamping jaw is extendedto press the package 200 against the lateral support surface 4328 (FIG.47) and the pin 4520 is withdrawn from the package.

For a vertical window covering material is cut from only one end of thevanes and from one end of the head rail. The head rail and vanes arestored in separate packages and are cut separately. The user selects anicon on the touch screen to initiate the cutting process (Block 5001).In the typical use a sales associate enters a security code and entersthat a vertical blind is to be cut. The user also enters whether thehead rail or vanes are to be cut (Block 5002). For a head rail the clampassembly is shuttled back and forth along the length of the platformsuch that the optical scanner 92 scans the package to read the bar code220 on the package (Block 5003). For the vanes a separate flip card 221having a bar code is held in front of scanner 92 such that it is scannedby the optical scanner 92 (Block 5004). The user selects the flip cardthat corresponds to the selected vanes and holds the flip card where itcan be read by the optical scanner. While the flip card is described asbeing used with the vanes and the head rail is described as having a barcode on the package, the bar code on the package and the flip card maybe used with any type of window covering. The code from the bar code isused by the PC to obtain from the look-up table the detailed informationfor the window covering. After reading the bar code the clamp assembly80 is moved to the position on the platform centered on the locationwhere the offset pin engages the alignment hole in the package. Aspreviously explained, while this position does not correspond to thecenter of the platform or the center of the package, this position isknown. A transaction record is created for the window covering andstored in memory as previously described with respect to horizontalwindow coverings.

For a head rail the monitor displays a prompt for whether the windowcovering is an inside mount or an outside mount. The user then entersinto the user interface and the PC receives a signal indicating whetherthe window covering is intended to be mounted as an inside mount or anoutside mount (Block 5006). For vanes the monitor displays a prompt forwhether the window covering is an inside mount, an outside mount orexact. For vanes the user is also provided with an additional option of“Exact” where the final dimension of the vanes is the same as thedesired size entered by the user. The user then enters into the userinterface and the PC receives a signal indicating whether the windowcovering is intended to be mounted as an inside mount, an outside mountor exact (Block 5009). The monitor displays a prompt asking for thedesired length of the head rail or vanes, as appropriate. The user thenenters into the user interface and the PC receives the desired length ofthe head rail or vanes (Block 5005). For a head rail, if an inside mountis selected, the PC automatically deducts a predetermined length fromthe desired size of the head rail entered by the user to obtain thefinal dimension of the head rail (Block 5007). If an outside mount isselected, the final dimension of the head rail is the desired size inputby the user (Block 5008). For vanes, for both inside and outside mountsthe PC deducts a predetermined length from the desired size of the vanesto account for the height of the head rail. If an outside mount isselected, the final dimension of the head rail is the desired size inputby the user minus the head rail dimension (Block 5010). If an insidemount is selected, the PC automatically deducts the predetermined headrail dimension and a second predetermined length from the desired sizeof the vanes entered by the user to obtain the final dimension of thevanes (Block 5011). If “Exact” is selected the final dimension of thevanes equals the desired size entered by the user” (Block 5012).

The PLC determines how far to move the package to properly position thehead rail or vanes in front of the saw. As previously explained, thehead rail or vanes are retained in the package such that the package andhead rail or vanes are cut simultaneously. Referring to FIG. 47, thepackages retain the head rail and vanes such that a first end of thehead rail or vanes is located a known distance C from a first end of thepackage. The cut is made at the opposite end of the package. Thealignment hole in the package is spaced a known distance Z from thefirst end of the package. For a particular window covering the valuesfor C and Z are obtained from the look-up table that was accessed usingthe bar code (Block 5013). The distance Y the clamp assembly must bepositioned from the saw to obtain the desired final dimension iscalculated according to the following equation:Y=Final Dimension−Z+C,where Y is the distance between the alignment hole and the saw (Block5014). The final dimension of the vertical window covering is Y+Z−C.

The PC transmits to the PLC the final dimension of the window coveringas entered by the user and including the deductions calculated by thePC, if any. Using this dimension, the PLC determines how far thealignment hole must be positioned from the saw to obtain the finaldimension of the window covering as calculated in accordance with theequation set forth above (Block 5014). This location is converted to anencoder count that corresponds to the calculated value Y. The PLC makesthis determination without using any information regarding the stock orstarting size of the blind or the amount of material that willeventually be cut from the end of the blind.

The PLC controls the drive for the clamp assembly to move the clampassembly toward one saw to position the alignment hole the calculateddistance Y from that saw (Block 5015). Because a limited amount of spaceis provided between the saw 32 and the end of the cabinet of the SISmachine the window covering cannot be advanced more than distance Sbeyond the saw. Because it may be necessary for the clamp assembly tomove the window covering more than distance S to reach the calculated Yposition, the SIS machine uses an iterative process to cut verticalwindow coverings.

In this iterative process, the window covering is indexed toward the sawby the clamp assembly. An optical sensor 105 is positioned in front ofthe saw blade 32 that senses the first end of the package as it isindexed toward the saw. The first end of the package is then moved pastthe saw. If the clamp assembly reaches the calculated Y value (encodercount) before moving distance S, the clamp assembly is stopped at theencoder count and the stationary clamp 99 associated with this saw isextended to hold the package (Block 5016). The saw is moved toward thepackage containing the head rail or vanes such that the saw engages andcuts the first end of the package and the head rail or vanes to thefinal dimension (Block 5017). If the clamp assembly does not reach thecalculated Y value (encoder count) before moving distance S, thestationary clamp 99 associated with this saw is extended to hold thepackage and window covering (Block 5018). The saw is moved toward thepackage containing the window covering such that the saw engages andcuts a length equal to S from the first end of the package (Block 5019).This process is repeated until the clamp assembly reaches the calculatedY value and the package and vanes or head rail are cut to the finaldimension (Block 5016).

After the window covering is cut to the final dimension, the stationaryclamp 99 is retracted and the clamp assembly 80 moves the windowcovering and package to the start position. The clamping jaw 82 isretracted to release the window covering and package. The drawer 4302 isopened to allow the user to remove the window covering 200 from theplatform.

Referring to FIGS. 48A through 48I, 51 and 58, the process for squaringa window covering and for cutting a window covering with a valance willnow be described. Prior to cutting a window covering it is necessary toensure that all of the components (head rail, bottom rail, slats, shadepanel, woven element, cells, etc.) are squared so that the cut elementsall have the same cut width. Further, a valance is dimensioned such thatit is longer than the window covering with which it is associated inorder to completely cover the head rail when the window covering isinstalled. For the automatic squaring of the window covering componentsand for window coverings with valances a specially configured packageand cutting process is used. The process provides automatic squaring ofthe window covering components and allows the window covering andvalance to be automatically cut using the SIS machine while maintainingthe length differential between the valance and the window covering.

Referring to FIG. 48A a window covering and package 200 is shown wherethe package comprises a box that is configured such that the valanceextends from the box and is movable along its longitudinal axis relativethereto. One embodiment of a suitable package 200 is shown in FIG. 58.Package 200 is provided consisting of an open-ended box or sleeve 5822that is a rectangular container that is open at both ends. The windowcovering is oriented in box 5822 such that it is centered in the boxwith the head rail, slats, bottom rail and valance 201 extending alongthe long axis of the box 5822. The window covering 203 is supported inbox 5822 such that it extends beyond the ends of box 5822 with the endsof valance 205 extending beyond the ends of window covering 203.

For transport, storage and display purposes end caps 5840 cover the openends of the box 5822. The end caps 5840 may be secured to the box 5822by any releasable connection including a shrink wrap, adhesive,tear-away tabs or the like. The end caps 5840 are removed from box 5822prior to cutting and may be replaced on the box 5822 after the cuttingoperation to retain the cut window covering in box 5822. While the box5822 is useful for a package for window coverings with valances, the boxmay be used with any window covering to provide the automatic squaringof the components of the window covering as will be described.

Referring again to FIGS. 48A through 48I and 51, the window covering ispackaged such that the window covering components and valance 205 extendbeyond the end of the package 200 and can be moved along thelongitudinal axis relative to the package and one another as representedby arrow A in FIG. 48A (Block 5101). The valance 205 extends beyond theends of the window covering 203 a distance equal to the final desiredlength differential between the valance and the window covering. Thus,if the valance 205 in the final cut product is to be ¼ inch longer thanthe window covering, the length of valance extending beyond the end ofthe window covering 203 is ¼ inch. In the drawings the length of valanceextending beyond the end of the window covering is exaggerated forillustrative purposes. One end of the valance may extend beyond the endof the package the entire length differential or both ends of thevalance may each extend beyond the end of the package a portion of thetotal length differential as shown in FIG. 48A.

To cut a window covering with a valance (or to automatically square andcut a window covering without a valance) additional squaring steps areadded to the cut process. As previously explained, the position of theclamp assembly relative to the saws is calculated based on a distancefrom a known location (e.g. center of the window covering) and the clampassembly is positioned based on the calculated distance from the knownlocation to the saw. To square the first end of the window covering, thewindow covering and package 200 are moved in a first direction, asrepresented by arrow B in FIG. 48B, until the end of the window coveringstrikes a squaring surface that is selectively moved into the path oftravel of the window covering (Block 5102). The squaring surface isarranged such that it is perpendicular to the direction of travel of thewindow covering. The window covering 203 is moved against the squaringsurface until the end of all of the window covering components abut thesquaring surface and are in a common plane or “square”. In theillustrated embodiment the squaring surface is the face of the saw blade36R. The saw blade 36R is moved to the extended position where itintersects the path of travel of the window covering; however, the sawblade 36R is not rotated. While the saw blades 36L and 36R are used asthe squaring surfaces in the illustrated embodiment, the squaringsurface may be a separate component that is moved into in the path oftravel of the blade. The window covering is moved one half the stocklength of the window covering from the saw blade.

Referring to FIG. 48C, the opposite saw 36L is extended and the package200, window covering 203 and valance 205 are moved toward the oppositesaw, arrow C, until the valance 205 and the end of the window covering203 strike the opposite saw blade 36L (Block 5103). The window covering200 and valance 201 are moved against the saw blade 36L until the windowcovering and valance abut the saw blade and the second ends of thevalance and the components of the window covering are coplanar andsquare.

Referring to FIG. 48D, the saw blade is retracted (Block 5104) and theclamp assembly 80 is moved to the calculated position, arrow D, toposition the window covering in front of the saw 35L (Block 5105).Referring to FIG. 48E, the stationary clamp 199 is extended to hold thewindow covering 203 in position and the saw 36L is rotated at high speedand moved into engagement with the window covering 203 and valance 205to cut both the valance and the window covering at the same time (Block5106).

Referring to FIG. 48F, the clamp assembly and window covering are thenmoved toward the opposite saw 36R and the opposite saw blade 36R ismoved to an extended position where it intersects the path of travel ofthe window covering. The window covering 203 and valance 205 are moved,arrow E, until they abut the saw blade 36R. The valance 205 is movedrelative to the window covering 203 by the saw blade 36R until the firstends of the valance 205 and window covering components are coplanar(Block 5107). In this position the valance extends beyond the previouslycut end of the window covering 203 a distance equal to the lengthdifferential.

Referring to FIG. 48G, the saw blade 36R is retracted (Block 5108) andthe clamp assembly 80 is moved to the calculated position, arrow F, toposition the window covering in front of the saw 36R (Block 5109).Referring to FIG. 48H, the stationary clamp 199 is extended to hold thewindow covering 203 and the saw 36R is rotated at high speed and movedinto engagement with the window covering 203 and valance 205 to cut thefirst ends of at the same time (Block 5110).

Because the valance was moved relative to the window covering prior tomaking each cut, the finished size of the valance 205 maintains the samelength differential relative to the window covering 203 as prior to thecuts, FIG. 48I. Thus, if the uncut valance was ¼ inch longer than theuncut window covering, the cut valance will be ¼ inch longer than thecut window covering.

The process described above may also be used to square the ends of thewindow covering even where a valance is not used. Using a package havingopen ends, such as described in FIG. 58, the package may be movedagainst the obstruction in the same manner and following the same stepsas described with respect to FIGS. 48A to 48I. When the ends of thewindow covering are pushed against the obstructions all of the windowcovering components (head rail, bottom rail, slats, shade panel and thelike) are aligned in the same vertical plane or “squared”. The squaredwindow covering is then clamped and cut as previously described.

It is to be understood that for any given stock size of window coveringthere is a range of cut sizes that are valid for that size windowcovering based on the geometry of the blind including the location ofthe lift cords, pulley systems, cord locks and the like. In oneembodiment, to ensure that a window covering is not cut such that thecut interferes with the operation of the window covering, a mark 103 maybe provided at each end of the window covering/package 200, FIGS. 21Eand 21F. A sensor 105 is located near the entrance to each cuttingdevice 30, 32 such that if the sensor 105 detects a mark 103 the cuttingoperation is terminated before a cut is made. The mark 103 may includereflective tape, reflective ink or other optically identifiable surfaceif sensors 105 are optical sensors, a physical characteristic such as anindentation if the sensors are mechanical sensors, a magnetic stripe ifthe sensors are magnetic sensors or other combination of mark and sensorprovided that sensor 105 can detect the mark 103. In one embodiment themark 103 is located between the end of the window covering and the liftcords, cord locks, pulley systems and other blind componentry such thata cut is prevented too close to (or inside of) these components. Themark can be located on the window covering/package such that blinds ofdifferent sizes, shapes, configurations and componentry can beaccommodated.

A vacuum system 90 may be used in the cutting chamber 8 to capture thedebris and dust created during the cutting operation. The vacuum system90 may comprise a vacuum motor that communicates with the cuttingchamber 8 by conduits such as flexible hoses. The vacuum system mayinclude a grate in the cutting chamber that allows the cut material toflow from the cutting chamber to the vacuum. Because the SIS machine maybe used on a wide variety of window coverings manufactured from a widevariety of materials, it is important that the system be able to removedust and debris from the cutting chamber. For example, when a real woodwindow covering is cut, the saw cuts through the wood slats creatingdust and debris and cuts through the metal head rail and bottom railthat may generate sparks. While unlikely, the sparks created by the sawblade striking the metal rails could ignite the wood dust and debris.Accordingly, the system uses a dust management system to minimize thedust debris in the cutting chamber.

Referring to FIG. 54 the system uses saw blade shrouds 5402 thatsubstantially surround the bottom of saw blades 36 as the sawsreciprocate between the cutting and non-cutting positions to trap dustand debris generated when cutting a window blind. A dust collectionplenum 5404 is provided in each saw chamber for drawing the dust anddebris from the saw chambers. Ducts 5406 and 5408 connect the dustcollection plenums 5404 and saw blade shrouds 5402 to vortex dustcollectors 5410. The vortex dust collectors 5410 separate the heavydebris from the fine dust. The vortex pulls the heavy debris from thevacuum stream where it falls into a large debris collection bucket 5412.The fines are drawn through ducts 5414 by dust collector 5418 andcaptured in a dust collection bag 5416 where they are collected. Dustcollection bag 5416 should be separated from electrical equipment toreduce chances of igniting dust in bag. The dust collection bag may behoused in a metal housing. The buckets 5412 and bag 5416 may be removedvia doors 5415 in machine housing 4 (FIG. 52) for debris disposal.Typically, the buckets are emptied and reused and the dust collector bagis disposed of and replaced. Blast gates 5420 may be provided to controlthe flow of air through the system and to control dust collection fromthe active saw.

Large debris such as the metal head rail, chip board, cellular fabric,and the like should be prevented from entering the dust collectionsystem to minimize or eliminate the chances of system clogging. Smoothbore flexible duct or smooth fixed duct work should be used to reducethe chances of dust accumulation or debris lodging within the system.Flow rates in the dust collection system should be at minimum of 2500f.p.m. Conductive non-combustible duct work should be used wherepossible with proper grounding. In one example, metal hard plumbed ductwork is used and plastic components are minimized. All componentshandling dust should be grounded and bonded to prevent static build up.The SIS machine should be vented to allow for air flow in the dustcollection system. A sensor may also be included that would prevent theSIS machine from operating if vacuum system goes down or the systemclogs. Further, fire resistant surfaces may be used inside the cut areaand blowers with an aluminum blade or housing may be used to preventsparks if, for example, the blower bearings go bad.

An air hose 5424 may also be provided for delivering a high pressureflow of air from air source 5426 into the window covering/package toblow the fines and debris from the head rail, bottom rail and slats suchthat the fines and debris can be pulled into the vacuum stream. Thisalso provides a cleaner product for the user when transporting andinstalling the window covering. The removal of the fines and debris fromthe cutting chamber minimizes the chance that the debris will beignited.

The system may also use a smoke or fire detector system to provide analarm if a fire is detected. Any suitable smoke or fire alarm 5422 maybe used. The alarm may provide a signal to the CPU 102 such that the CPUmay provide a suitable alarm. The alarm may be an audible and/or visualsignal provided at the SIS machine and/or the CPU may transmit a datamessage to a maintenance provider, a premise's fire system, a securitysystem, a fire department or the like over network 108.

Further, weather stripping is provided to seal the saw chambers andprevent dust and fine particles from exiting the saw chambers. Thecomputer and PLC are also stored in separate compartments 4325 and 4327(FIG. 43) where the compartments are also sealed to prevent dust andfines from fouling the electronics equipment.

In an alternate embodiment the clamp assembly 80 may include two sensors92 and 94, FIGS. 22A-22D used to locate the center of the windowcovering. The clamp assembly is moved along the platform 20 by drive 89from the known center position CP (FIG. 22A) in one direction until thesensor located at the leading edge of the clamp (sensor 92) locates thefirst end 200 a of the window covering/package 200 relative to the knowncenter position CP, FIG. 22B. The position of the clamp assembly 80marking the first end of the window covering/package 200 is saved inmemory. The direction of movement of the clamp assembly 80 is thenreversed and the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform 20 bydrive 89 from the known center position CP in the opposite directionuntil the other sensor (sensor 94), located at the leading edge of theclamp, locates the opposite end 200 b of the window covering/packagerelative to the known center position CP FIG. 22C. The position of theclamp assembly 80 marking the second edge of the window covering/package200 is stored in memory. Based on the detected end positions, the CPUthen determines the center CW of the window covering/package 200. TheCPU uses the stored the positions of the first edge 200 a and secondedge 200 b to determine the center of window covering 200. Thesepositions may be determined by, for example, counting the rotations ofstepper motor or servomotor 91 as the clamp assembly 80 moves from thecenter position CP to the first edge 200 a and the second edge 200 b.The CPU then determines the position midway between the first and secondedge positions by, for example, dividing the number of rotations betweenthe two positions by two and adding the result to or subtracting it fromthe first or second position, respectively, to arrive at the center ofthe window covering. The center of the window covering may also bedetermined by calculating the distances of the first edge 200 a and thesecond edge 200 b relative to the center position CP. The CPU alsodetermines the distance D between the center of the window covering andthe center position CP. The CPU positions the clamp assembly 80 suchthat it is aligned with the center of the window covering/package FIG.22D. A single sensor may also be used to detect both edges of the windowcovering/package. Once the clamp assembly 80 is aligned with the centerCW of the window covering/package the window covering may be cut aspreviously described.

A validation process may also be used to ensure that the cuttingoperation described above is valid for the selected window covering.Either the package with the window covering or the window covering (ifremoved from the package) is provided with product identificationinformation in a machine readable form such as data encoded in bar code220 that is readable by a sensor 122 such as optical scanner. While thewindow covering may be cut either with the packaging or removed from thepackaging, cutting the window covering in the package may be simpler andallows the package to hold the product in place during and after it iscut. The bar code 220 is unique to the window covering with which it isassociated and identifies the specific window covering by using a uniquecode such as a serial number. The bar code 220 may also containinformation such as the size, style, color or the like of the windowcovering. The bar code 220 may also contain manufacturer's informationsuch as lot number or retailer's information such as purchase ordernumber.

The bar code 220 is read using a sensor 122 such as an optical scannerto obtain the identification information (Block 900). The bar code 220may be replaced by radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or othersuitable identification technology. The sensor 122 transmits a signal toCPU 102 or processor 202 encoded with the data specific to the windowcovering 200. The identification information may be stored in data base104 as part of the transaction record 230 for the window covering.

The CPU 102 or processor 202 may use the user input data and theidentification information (e.g. the information encoded in or obtainedfrom the look-up table using bar code 220) to determine if the customerrequest is valid FIG. 27. The CPU 102 or processor 202 compares the userinput desired size to the allowable product size range as obtained fromthe bar code 220 (Block 901) and determines if the user input cut sizeis a valid cut size for the selected window covering (Block 902). Forexample, has the user inadvertently selected a window covering that issmaller than the desired cut size or has the user selected a cut sizethat is too small for the selected stock window covering. Specifically,the PC has a look up table that lists a range of blind sizes that arevalid for any given stock size blind. A comparison is made between theentered desired size and the range of valid sizes. If the desired sizefalls within this range, the cut is validated and the user is asked toconfirm the request. In the embodiment of FIG. 20 the PC then sends asignal to the PLC to initiate the cutting operation. In the embodimentof FIG. 19 the CPU initiates the cutting operation. If the desired sizeis outside of this range, an error message is displayed on the touchscreen. If the user input data is not valid, an error message will bedisplayed to the user by the user interface identifying the error andrequesting that the user correct the user input data or the selectedwindow covering (Block 903). If the window covering/package 200 isprovided with marks 103 that are readable by sensors 105 that prevent acut if the cut would interfere with the components or functionality ofthe window covering as previously described, this separate verificationstep may be omitted.

The CPU may also compare the user input data to the productidentification information from the bar code 220 and determine if theuser has actually selected the window covering that the user believesthat he or she selected (e.g. does the user input style and color matchthe actual style and color of the window covering) (Block 904). Thedisplay may display the information obtained from the look-up table foruser review. If the user input data is valid for the selected blind, theSIS machine will initiate the cutting process to automatically cut theblind to the user's desired size as has been described (Block 905). Ifthe user input data is not valid, an error message will be displayed tothe user by the user interface identifying the error and requesting thatthe user correct the user input data or the selected window covering(Block 903). The validation process may be repeated until the user datais validated for the selected window covering. Note, one or both ofverification steps 902 and 904 may be omitted.

Another method for determining the validity of the window covering sizedetermination is to rely on the weight of the window covering ratherthan using a machine readable data structure such as bar code 220. Ascale could be incorporated into the platform 20 to detect the weight ofthe window covering/package 200. A look up in a look up table stored inmemory 104 can then be performed by the CPU 102 or processor 202comparing the measured weight to the known weights of the stock windowcoverings. The weight could be used to identify window coveringcharacteristics such as permissible of cut ranges, window coveringmaterial or the like where the characteristics are used to validate orimplement the cutting operation. For example a particular saw blade typeor saw speed may be used for different blind materials. Further, validcut ranges may be determined for a window covering.

After the window covering is cut to the desired size, drive 89 moves theclamp assembly 80 and the window covering/package 200 to the centerposition CP (Block 724, FIG. 24D). Drive 43 retracts the clamping jaw 82to releases the window covering/package 200 (Block 725).

The system may then verify that the actual cut length matches the userinput cut size (Block 726). The clamp assembly 80 is moved along theplatform 20 by drive 89 from the known center position in one directionuntil the sensor locates the first end 200 a of the windowcovering/package 200. The direction of movement of the clamp assembly 80is then reversed and the clamp assembly 80 is moved along the platform20 by drive 89 in the opposite direction until the sensor locates theopposite edge 200 b of the window covering/package. The distance theclamp assembly 80 travels between the two edges 200 a and 200 b of thepackage is detected. The distance traveled is equal to the actual cutsize of the window covering. The actual cut size is compared to thedesired cut size input by the user. If the two sizes match the cut isverified. The two sizes may be determined to match if the distancebetween the input cut size and the actual cut size fall within apredetermined minimum acceptable error margin.

The vacuum, saws and other moving components are stopped and the door 6or drawer 4302 are opened automatically or manually (Block 727). The cutwindow covering can then be removed by the user. The cutting operationis completely automated. The cutting process is also isolated from theuser during the process to maximize the safety of the process.

The data related to the transaction is stored in a transaction record230 and may include, but not be limited to, original size of product,cut to size of product, date, time, store identifier/location, and blinddrop (length), bar code number, product cut width, time spent duringcutting, number of times the user navigates to each screen page and anyerrors reported by the PLC (Block 728). The data captured by the SISmachine could be transferred to the blind manufacturer 111 or retaileroutlet system 113 over a network 108 at any time and be associated withthe customer's original order such that a complete record of the orderand cutting operation is maintained (Block 729).

Numerous processes may be used to enable the user to transmit the userinput data to the SIS machine 1. In one operation, FIGS. 28A and 28B,the user measures the window or other architectural feature usingtraditional measuring tools such as a tape measure, ruler, electronictape measure or the like and notes the measurements (Block 801). Thecustomer logs onto a website of a window covering provider and selects awindow covering product for each measured architectural feature and theselection is transmitted to and received by CPU 102 or processor 202(Block 802). The user may log onto the web site from a user terminal 109or from user interface 112 or from any device that allows access to thewebsite. A transaction record is created for that customer andtransaction by CPU 102 or processor 202 and the transaction record isstored in memory (Block 803). Based on the noted measurements, thecustomer enters a cut size for each of the selected window coverings andthe CPU 102 or processor 202 receives the cut sizes (Block 804). Thecustomer is prompted for and transmits whether the mount is an insidemount or an outside mount. The type of mount is received by the CPU 102or processor 202 (Block 805). If outside mount is selected the windowcovering is cut to the size input by the customer. If inside mount isselected a length deduction, for example ½ inch, is subtracted from thesize input by the customer (Block 806). The customer is prompted for zipcode, address or other geographical information and the geographicalinformation is received by the CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 807). TheCPU 102 or processor 202 determines the nearest retail outlet locationhaving a SIS machine such as by using a look up table stored in memory104 (Block 808). The identified retail outlet is displayed on the userinterface 112 or terminal 109 (Block 808). The customer may select theidentified outlet or the customer may manually select another outlet.The selected outlet is recorded in the transaction record (Block 809).The customer is prompted for and confirms the order and the confirmationis received by the CPU or processor (Block 810). Payment may be madeon-line or payment may be deferred until the customer picks up the orderat the retail outlet. The ordering process may include verification ofthe customer payment information (Block 811).

The customer's order and/or complete transaction record is sent to theselected retail outlet 113 over network 108 (Block 812). Based on theorder, the retail outlet personnel use the SIS machine to cut theordered window coverings to the customer's specified dimensions (Block813) as previously described. The cutting operation may be performedduring off hours or non-peak hours to more efficiently use personneltime.

The customer is contacted by retail outlet 113 with a scheduled pick-uptime for retrieving the cut window covering (Block 814). The customertravels to the retail outlet to pick up the cut window coverings (Block815).

Another ordering methodology uses a photo-measuring kit to provide themeasurements for the architectural feature rather than using atraditional measuring tool. The customer obtains a photo-measuring kitsuch as by ordering a kit from a window covering manufacturer's websiteor picking up a measuring kit at a retail outlet.

Referring to FIGS. 29A, 29B and 30 the measuring kit includes at leastone measuring block 120 that includes a unique design 121 printed on afront surface thereof (Block 601). The measuring block may comprise anyrigid material that can be supported adjacent the architectural feature123 being measured. The design 121 comprises a unique pattern or designthat is of known dimensions and shape. The specific shape of the designis selected such that it is unlikely to be similar to any aspects of thearchitectural feature and thus will be recognizable when viewed adjacentto the architectural feature.

The customer places one or more measuring blocks 120 in thearchitectural feature being measured (Block 602) such that the measuringblock 120 and entire architectural feature 123 are visible. Themeasuring block 120 should be mounted as close to the same plane as thearchitectural feature being measured. Thus, for example, to measure awindow the measuring block is mounted within the frame of the windowsuch as by taping it to the window glass. In one embodiment at least twomeasuring blocks are used where each measuring block is located with adesignated edge 125 placed along the edge of the architectural featurebeing measured. For example, for a window covering that is intended tobe mounted on a window, the edges 125 of the blocks 120 are placed alongthe inside frame of the window. A digital photograph of thearchitectural feature 123 with the measuring blocks 120 mounted adjacentthereto is taken (Block 604). The customer may also place a uniquedesignator 127 on the architectural feature while photographing it toidentify the building, room and/or architectural feature to which thatmeasurement relates (Block 603).

The customer logs onto a window covering provider website from a userterminal 109 over network 108 and the CPU 102 or processor 202 creates atransaction record (Block 605). The system prompts the customer for, andthe customer enters, information related to the customer such as name,address, payment information, internet address or the like and the CPU102 or processor 202 receives this information and populates thetransaction record unique to that customer and transaction (Block 606).The customer is then prompted to upload the photographs taken of thearchitectural feature with the measuring blocks (Block 607). Thecustomer uploads the photographs and the photographs are received by theCPU 102 or processor 202 and stored in memory (Block 608). Thephotographs are displayed to the customer on the customer interface 112109 (Block 609). The customer is prompted to select the photograph ofthe first architectural feature for which a window covering is to beordered (Block 610). The customer selection is entered into thetransaction record for the first transaction (Block 611).

The system determines the dimensions of the architectural feature usingthe photograph provided and selected by the user (Block 612). Referringto FIG. 31, the system first determines the display resolution of thephotograph (Block 1201). Once the display resolution is determined thesystem determines the scale of the photograph (Block 1202). This isaccomplished by counting the number of pixels extending from one pointon the unique design 121 on a measuring block to another point on thatdesign (Block 1203). Because the dimensions of the design 121 are known,the system can determine the scale of the photograph by calculating howmany pixels extend between the two points on the design. Because thedistance between the two known points is known the system calculates howmuch linear distance (scaling factor) each pixel represents (Block1204). The system can then determine the distance between the referenceedges 125 of the measuring blocks 120 by counting the pixels betweenthose reference edges (Block 1205) and multiplying the number of pixelsby the scaling factor (Block 1206). Thus, the system can automaticallydetermine the dimension of the architectural feature based on thephotograph provided by the user.

Referring again to FIG. 29B, the customer is then prompted to select acut-to-size window covering for the selected architectural feature andthe selection is received and stored by the CPU 102 (Block 613). Thesystem automatically overlays the selected window covering on theselected architectural feature and displays the composite image on theuser terminal 109 (Block 614). The composite image provides the customeran opportunity to view how a specific window covering will look on theirspecific architectural feature before the customer purchases the windowcovering. The customer can change the style, color, mount of the windowcovering to display various design options before purchasing the windowcovering. The customer selects the desired window covering and theselection is received and recorded by CPU 102 (Block 615). The customerrepeats these steps for all pictures (architectural features) that wereuploaded into the system (Block 610).

Another ordering methodology will now be described where the userinteracts directly with the SIS machine. Referring to FIG. 32, thecustomer visits a retail outlet having a SIS machine (Block 1001). Thecustomer physically shops the retail outlet and selects the windowcovering they wish to purchase and cut (Block 1002). The customer orstore personnel (hereinafter “user”) loads the selected window coveringinto the SIS machine and initiates the cutting process by pushing astart button on the user interface 112 (Block 1003). The user uses userinterface 112 to input information about the SIS product to be sized andthe customer. A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 34 that illustratesan introductory screen that may be displayed on user interface 112 thatprovides the user with options to cut the window covering, instructionson how to use the system, or the like. If the user selects to cut ablind another screen shot such as that shown in FIG. 35 may be presentedon user interface 112 that prompts the user for information relating tothe window covering to be cut. In the illustrated screen shot the useris prompted to select a type of blind. The information is received bythe CPU 102 or processor 202 and a transaction record is created (Block1004). Verbal and/or visual feedback on the selection may be given tothe user at user interface 112. The user enters the cut size of thefinished product and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receives thisinformation and stores it in the transaction record (Block 1005). Asample screen shot is shown in FIG. 36 for receiving the sizeinformation from the customer. Another screen shot is shown in FIG. 37showing a pop up screen for receiving the user measurements of thearchitectural feature. The user is prompted for and enters into thesystem inside or outside mount and the CPU 102 or processor 202 receivesand records this information in the transaction record (Block 1006). Asample screen shot is shown in FIG. 38 for receiving the inside/outsidemount information. The system determines and displays on the userinterface the size of the stock product required for the desired cutproduct (Block 1007). A sample screen shot is shown in FIG. 39 fordisplaying the stock product required for the desired cut size windowcovering. The user is directed to place the window covering into themachine in the proper location and orientation. A sample screen shot isshown in FIG. 40 prompting the user to load the machine and fordisplaying a signal that the window covering was properly inserted. Theuser interface 112 may display to the user a summary of the data relatedto the window covering including size, blind type, color or the like asshown in the screen shot of FIG. 41. The machine automatically cuts theblind to the desired size as previously explained. The process may berepeated for each blind to be cut. A screen shot prompting the user foranother window covering or ending the cutting session is illustrated inFIG. 42. Once the user is finished, the SIS machine may print a receiptcontaining the original size of the product before cutting, and the sizethe product have cut too.

Data of the transaction would be stored in the internal database 104where the stored data may include, but not be limited to, original sizeof product, cut to size of product, date, time, store location, andblind drop. The data captured by the SIS machine could be transferred tothe blind manufacturer 111 or retailer outlet system 113 over network108 at any time such that a complete record of the order and cuttingoperation is maintained as previously described. Because the PC isconnected over network 108 to the blind manufacturer, retailer ormaintenance service provider, the information may be remotely providedfrom any of these entities to and from the SIS machine. For example, theSIS machine may provide a maintenance alert if its onboard diagnosticsdetermines that that a predetermined situation has occurred. The SISmachine may also provide diagnostic information to a maintenance serviceprovider. The software running the SIS machine can also be remotelyupdated to change operating parameters of the machine such as the feedspeed and rotational speed of the saws. The software running the SISmachine can also be remotely updated to change the information displayedon the screen to the user including sales and marketing information.

Another ordering methodology uses the photo-measuring kit as previouslydescribed. Referring to FIG. 33 the user photographs the architecturalfeature 123 and blocks 120 using a digital camera (Block 1101). The userbrings the camera or memory stick or the like having the photographsstored in memory to a retail outlet and connects the camera to the CPU102 or processor 202 via a USB port or places the memory stick in theappropriate memory card reader slot or otherwise connects the cameramemory to the CPU 102 or processor 202 (Block 1102). The customer inputsinformation to the user interface and the CPU 102 or processor 202creates a transaction record as previously described (Block 1103).Overlay images may be displayed at user interface 112 such that thecustomer can view the images of selected window coverings on theirphotographs and select a desired window covering style as previouslydescribed (Block 1104). The CPU 102 or processor 202 calculates thestock size of the window covering and displays to the user the size ofstock window covering that is needed for the architectural feature shownin the user photograph (1105).

Another ordering methodology requires that the customer manually measurethe dimensions of the architectural feature to be covered using existingmeasuring tools such as a tape measure or laser measure (Block 1106).The customer brings the measurements to a retail outlet and manuallyinputs the measurement information and other information at the userinterface 112 and the CPU 102 or processor 202 and a transaction recordis created as previously described (Block 1107). The CPU 102 orprocessor 202 calculates the required stock window covering size (Block1105).

The user then physically selects the indicated window covering from theretail outlet inventory and places the window covering in the SISmachine as previously described (Block 1108). The SIS machine operatesautomatically to cut the window covering to the desired size aspreviously explained.

In one embodiment the SIS system could direct the customer to theappropriate size window coverings (Block 1109). For example, the userinterface 112 displays an identification of the location within theretail outlet by alphanumeric characters, color code, map or the like(Block 1110). Alternatively, the system may be connected to lights orother audio/visual indicators 135 associated with the inventory ofwindow coverings where the indicator is actuated to identify theappropriate window covering (Block 1111). For example, the bin in whichthe window coverings are stored is lighted to guide the customer to theappropriate window covering. Once the appropriate window covering isselected the customer loads the window covering into the SIS machine(Block 1112) and the SIS machine cuts the window covering as previouslydescribed.

Because a transaction record is created for each customer and eachtransaction the system operator has a complete record of each purchase.This information can be used to confirm and verify individual purchasesby individual purchasers. This information can also be used in theaggregate to determine market trends, most common window sizes, mostpopular window treatments, buying habits and other market trends. Thisinformation may also be used for inventory control. For example, if thewindow covering provider has access to the data that manufacturer canobtain real time information on hand inventory for any of its customersand can restock depleted inventory and/or remove slow moving inventoryin a timely manner to ensure that the manufacturer's supply of productmatches the purchasing patterns of a specific retailer's customers. Theretail outlet, if it has access to this information, can use theinformation for its own customers. All of this data may be sent to aremote location over network 108.

Because the user is a captive audience during the cutting operation theuser interface 112 can be used to present advertising information, news,or other information to the customer. The information may be storedlocally in the operating system of the SIS machine such that theinformation relates to other products sold by the retail outlet orwindow covering provider. Moreover, because the operating system of theSIS machine is connected to the internet, any information may beprovided on the user interface by the system administrator where theuser interface 112 functions as the user terminal.

Specific embodiments of an invention are described herein. One ofordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention has otherapplications in other environments. In fact, many embodiments andimplementations are possible. The following claims are in no wayintended to limit the scope of the invention to the specific embodimentsdescribed above.

1. An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprising: a lateralsupport surface; a first saw for cutting the window covering positionedat a first end of the lateral support surface and a second saw forcutting the window covering positioned at a second end of the lateralsupport surface; an engagement member for locating the center of thewindow covering, said engagement member being mounted on the lateralsupport surface and being movable between an extended position where itprojects into engagement with the window covering and a retractedposition where it retracts from the window covering; a clamp assemblycomprising a clamping jaw movable to a first position where the clampingjaw presses the window covering against the lateral support surface,said clamp assembly and window covering being movable relative to theengagement member and the lateral support surface and toward and awayfrom the first saw and the second saw when the engagement member is inthe retracted position; and a controller for moving the clamp assemblyto automatically position a first end of the window covering relative tothe first saw and a second end of the window covering relative to thesecond saw.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said engagement memberis movable between an extend position where it projects beyond thelateral surface and a retracted position where it is disposed behind thelateral surface.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said engagementmember comprises a pin, said pin engaging a mating hole on said windowcovering.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said lateral supportsurface is mounted on a drawer movable between a first open position anda second closed position.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4 further includinga platform that supports the window covering, said platform beinglocated in said drawer.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said clampassembly is mounted for movement with said drawer.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein said lateral support surface comprises a plurality ofrollers.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first saw and saidsecond saw reciprocate to cut the window covering.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein a first clamp is located adjacent the first saw forholding the window covering when the first saw cuts the window coveringand a second clamp is located adjacent the second saw for holding thewindow covering when the second saw cuts the window covering.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein said clamp assembly is mounted on acarriage that is reciprocated to move the window covering.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 1 further including a user interface to input data tothe controller.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said windowcovering comprises a package such that the package is cut by the firstsaw and the second saw.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the windowcovering comprises a box where said window covering extends from thebox.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the engagement member engagesa hole formed on the box.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising product identification information in the form of a bar codeassociated with the window covering.